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To stop short in any research that bids fair to widen the…

“To stop short in any research that bids fair to widen the gates of knowledge, to recoil from fear of difficulty or adverse criticism, is to bring reproach on science. There is nothing for the investigator to do but go straight on, 'to explore up and down, inch by inch, with the taper his reason;'…” quote by William Crookes
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“To stop short in any research that bids fair to widen the gates of knowledge, to recoil from fear of difficulty or adverse criticism, is to bring reproach on science. There is nothing for the investigator to do but go straight on, 'to explore up and down, inch by inch, with the taper his reason;' to follow the light wherever it may lead, even should it at times resemble a will-o'-the-wisp.”

William Crookes

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The passage urges scientists to persist despite fear, difficulty, or criticism, following curiosity wherever it leads.

In simple terms: Scientists must keep exploring despite obstacles.

Key Takeaway

Persist in inquiry despite challenges.

Themes

science courage curiosity

Mood

inspirational serious

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • laboratory research
  • field studies
  • theoretical work

Key Concepts

intellectual honesty resilience

Questions to Reflect On

  • What obstacles have you faced in research?
  • How can you maintain curiosity under pressure?
A Different Perspective

May underestimate practical constraints of funding and resources.

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